Q. What is the use of a concrete plasticizer?

Answer

Concrete plasticizers are also termed as water reducing admixtures. As the name suggests, the purpose of this is to reduce the requirement of water for making concrete. In areas where water is scarce, plasticizers are increasingly being used to ensure that the quality of concrete does not suffer. Concrete making and setting takes up a lot of water. Therefore, by use of plasticizers, we can reduce the water requirement, while ensuring that the concrete meets the desired properties for the construction. Plasticizers also prevent the segregation of concrete, therefore contributing to an improved pumpability and workability of concrete. They are also known to mitigate any cracks during the setting of concrete. Best of all, plasticizers are usable with all kinds of cements.